Strengthening Justice and Legal Cooperation: Outcomes of the Bilateral Meeting between South Africa and the UAE

On 5 June 2023, South Africa’s Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr. Ronald Lamola, met with his counterpart, H.E. Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, the Minister of Justice of the United Arab Emirates. The meeting aimed to enhance mutual legal assistance and extradition matters between the two countries.

Extradition Process of Gupta Family

During the meeting, Minister Lamola expressed concerns about the extradition process of the Gupta family. He emphasized that the matter was of national interest for South Africa. The United Arab Emirates confirmed that they had put in place all necessary measures to meet international obligations and support South Africa in its quest for justice.

Joint Task Team of Prosecutors

To further strengthen the partnership between South Africa and the United Arab Emirates, the ministers agreed to establish a joint task team of prosecutors from both countries. This technical joint task team is scheduled to meet on 15 June to review the extradition requests and additional mutual legal assistance from South Africa.

Collaboration in the Field of Justice and Legal Services

Apart from extradition matters, the bilateral meeting also focused on broader cooperation in the field of justice and legal services. The ministers recognized the importance of continued collaboration to achieve shared goals and enhance the rule of law in both countries.

Role of Joint Task Team of Prosecutors

The joint task team of prosecutors will play a crucial role in furthering cooperation between South Africa and the United Arab Emirates. By working together, they will not only address extradition requests but also facilitate a closer relationship in broader legal matters. This collaboration is expected to yield positive results, contributing significantly to the fair administration of justice and the rule of law in both countries.

Renewed Commitment to Mutual Legal Assistance and Extradition Matters

The meeting between Minister Lamola and Minister Al Nuaimi represents a renewed commitment to mutual legal assistance and extradition matters. Through this strengthened partnership, both nations can look forward to a future in which the rule of law is enhanced, and justice is effectively served.

It is essential that South Africa and the United Arab Emirates continue to engage in such bilateral meetings and agreements in the future. By doing so, they will not only address pressing issues like extradition requests but also foster a stronger partnership in the broader field of justice and legal services. It is through initiatives like this that countries can truly collaborate to promote the rule of law and the fair administration of justice for all.